Kokrajhar (Assam): Authorities in Kokrajhar district have enforced prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to maintain law and order ahead of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections.
District Magistrate Masanda M Pertin issued the directive, which bans the carrying of licensed firearms across Kokrajhar until the completion of the polling process.
Only security personnel on election duty and sportspersons affiliated with the National Rifle Association of India, on production of valid documents, are exempt from the restriction.
A separate order also prohibits unauthorised rallies, public meetings, processions, and the use of vehicles for electioneering without prior approval.
Organising fairs without permission, using loudspeakers without clearance, carrying weapons or explosives, and holding torchlight processions have also been barred.
The prohibitory measures will remain in effect until further notice, with exemptions for officials and security personnel engaged in election duties.
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Officials said the restrictions aim to prevent untoward incidents and ensure the peaceful conduct of the BTC elections in Kokrajhar.
Polling for the 40-member council is scheduled for September 22, and counting will take place on September 26.
The BTC also covers Chirang, Baksa, Udalguri, and Tamulpur districts.
